Help me pick a woods gun, please

[TIMETRIPPER]

You've just come full circle Tom.

Is there an aluminum-framed version of the 34/63?

Nowadays that would be the Kit Gun version of the 317. Has a 3" barrel with adjustable sights. However, there is also the older model 43 Airweight Kit Gun made from 1954 to 1974. Some were made in 2" but most had the 3 1/2 barrel. Weight was around 14 oz. There's a couple of shooter grades guns listed on GB for between $450 - 600. Similar price range to the steel frame model 34. Although I believe that the .22 cal airweights do not have the frame cracking issues of the larger 38 cal guns, in my mind, the 4 extra oz of the steel frame is a small price to pay for the extra durability. But to each his own, it's what makes this country great!
John

 

[Klondike Mike]

Oh, yeah! Your M-60-4 even has the same Pachmayr grips that mine does. How do you like the Cold Steel knife?

I have a couple of El Paso holsters and one from Bianchi that are similar to your black one. They hold the gun well and with a good belt, minimize weight.

The Cold Steel knife is okay. I only used it on one deer and it worked as good as any other. The holster is from S&W and fits really good. Most J frame holsters are for 2" or 4" barrels. I love the Pachmyer Compacs.

 

[CAJUNLAWYER]

Is there an aluminum-framed version of the 34/63?

yes, there is. It's called a 317. See my previous post.

 

[thndrchiken]

For a woods gun my minimum would be a 4" 357 with a 44 preferable.

 

[G.T. Smith]

I think, (but that don't hold water), that you had the right idea to start with. The 37 is light and effective. If you shoot standard pressure loads and practice, you will like it. I put mine in a crossdraw for driving, and an OWB for woods bumming. For hunting I carry a 4" K frame .357.
I love my little 37 no dash. It's kind of rough but tight.
Peace,
gordon

 

[walnutred]

I carry a 3" M37. With my practice load of 3.5 gns of BE under a 125gn SWC it shoots point of aim at 50', comfortably.